About this app

MUCCA is a mobile application for creating audiovisual expressions on tablet devices. In this app, users set rules on how sounds are played in relation to visual material (“object”) such as a drawing or a photograph. By moving the objects on a touchscreen, users can create a piece in which sound and image are linked. Photographs taken on built-in camera or sounds recorded with built-in microphone of a tablet device can be used as objects. Additionally, movements can be assigned to objects for an automatic performance or users can play the objects by touch.

Creative expression on digital media is characterized by the user’s ability not only to produce results and define “objects” but also to abstractly design the process itself. Users can enjoy such experiences of digital media with the various mechanisms of this app. For example, by connecting visual movement to the concept of music, users can intuitively explore forms of audiovisual expression. Furthermore, there are various parameters in this app, which determine the movement of the object, the assigned musical instrument, tone, scale, and timing of sounds. With these parameters for creating musical content, sophisticated algorithmic composition is possible.

To create a piece using MUCCA

Create visual material (object) from drawings and photographs.

Set rules to connect objects and sounds.

Assign movement to the object for automatic performance or play the object by touch.

To create a place of communication using MUCCA

MUCCA can be used to conduct workshops. Participants can individually exhibit their MUCCA creations through the workshop system. Or the pieces can be collectively displayed on a large screen at a workshop venue. The pieces can then be performed interactively using tablet devices. In July 2015, we conducted a MUCCA workshop and concert for elementary and junior high school students at Gifu Media Cosmos in Gifu city, Gifu prefecture.